Can you guess it from the photo I chose above?

Earlier this school year I was nominated for the elementary art educator of the year award through the Illinois Art Education Association. Dr. Jares wrote me a wonderful letter of recommendation. (thank you again)

They give out awards in these categories:

1.Illinois Art Educator of the Year 

2.Illinois Elementary Art Educator of the Year 

3.Illinois Middle School/Junior High Art Educator of the Year 

4.Illinois Secondary Art Educator of the Year 

5.Illinois Early Professional Award (completion of 5 years teaching) 

6.Illinois Higher Education Art Educator of the Year 

7.Illinois Art Administrator/Supervisor of the Year 

The Criteria include:

1.Outstanding record of success as an art educator from colleagues, administrators, students, and        community.

2.Outstanding ongoing record of general professional achievement, continued education, studio accomplishments/exhibitions,      publications, service to individual school program and school district, service to community, and service to IAEA.

3.Recognized as a leader.

They decided not to give me the elementary award.

Instead they gave me their highest award, Illinois Art Educator of the Year !!!!!

Here is a listing on the IAEA website of all the award recipients this year.

They will be presenting the award on Friday, Nov. 11th at the IAEA Conference in Normal, Illinois.